Diarrhea

Overview of Diarrhea

Diarrhea is a change in the stool pattern from formed or solid bowel movements to ones that are looser or watery in consistency and generally occurring more than three times a day.

Most acute diarrhea episodes last only a few days to a couple of weeks and generally need no special treatment. Acute diarrhea can be caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, intolerance to certain foods or as a side effect of medications.

Chronic diarrhea may be due to intestinal diseases such as Crohn’s disease or Ulcerative Colitis or Celiac disease. It can also be associated with functional bowel disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Diarrhea from any cause is dangerous if a person becomes dehydrated.

Signs & Symptoms

Diarrhea may be accompanied by a sense of urgency to defecate, abdominal cramping, pain or bloating, nausea and vomiting. Depending on the cause of diarrhea, a person may have a fever or some blood and mucous in their stools.

Prevention

To prevent infectious diarrhea, practicing good hygiene such as washing hands often, especially before eating or preparing food; and always after using the toilet. Keep one’s hands/fingers away from the mouth area. Food to be eaten should be properly cooked and any leftovers stored properly in the refrigerator.

To prevent Traveler’s Diarrhea: avoid potentially contaminated water and foods.

Treatment

The most important treatment for all causes of diarrhea involves maintenance of fluid and electrolyte (salts and minerals) balance.

Depending on the cause of the diarrhea, certain medications to slow down the diarrhea or to treat a specific infection may be needed.

Specific guidelines on maintaining adequate fluid and electrolyte balance to prevent dehydration can be obtained from SHS or online.

Resources

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